The Release Preview version of Windows 11 24H2 was the first version where the Recall feature could be enabled.
Recall is a new feature of Windows that continuously takes screenshots of what you’re doing on your PC and saves them while also using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to create a searchable text database. This will create a timeline of everything you’ve done on your PC, which is potentially useful, but because Recall doesn’t redact screenshots and only excludes apps or websites at the users’ specific request, it’s also a potential treasure trove of information for attackers and cyber criminals.
In response to criticism from security researchers, the press, and users, Microsoft has announced significant changes to Recall. By default, Recall will now be disabled on compatible PCs during setup. Additionally, Microsoft is enhancing authentication and encryption to safeguard users’ Recall data on the same PC.
Microsoft quietly removed the Windows 11 24H2 build from its Release Preview channel for Windows Insiders. Although the company hasn’t specified a reason for the pause, it’s likely related to the Recall adjustments. This upcoming Windows 11 build would have allowed users to enable and explore Recall features.
While Recall is officially available only on upcoming Copilot+ PCs, resourceful users of Arm PCs running Windows 11 build 26100.712 have found ways to activate it using 3rd party tools.
If you’ve already downloaded and installed the pulled Windows 11 24H2 build, it will continue to function. However, those opting into the Release Preview channel on older Windows 11 releases (such as 22H2 or 23H2) will no longer receive this specific build.
The Verge:
https://www.theverge.com/2024/6/10/24175306/microsoft-hits-the-windows-11-update-pause-button
Microsoft’s 2 line “pause” update
https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2024/05/22/releasing-windows-11-version-24h2-to-the-release-preview-channel/
For more than 20 years, David Snell’s Tech Talk has been a regular spot on The South Shore’s Morning News on 95.9 WATD fm. At 8:11, David chats with show host Rob Hakala about what’s happening in IT today. The subjects range from computer viruses, scams and cybercriminals to what Amazon, Apple or Microsoft are planning next.
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